Charlene Roach Henninger

Charlene Roach Henninger – known to friends as Pat, to family as Patsy, and lovingly as Mom, Grandma Pat, G-mom, or Gigi – passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025 at the age of 94, surrounded by her family.

She was born January 30, 1931 to the late Charles Arthur Roach and Nellie Florence Roach and grew up in the wide-open spaces of the Texas Panhandle.  As an adult, Pat committed herself to meaningful work as a dedicated public servant at both the local and federal level with the Department of Agriculture,  and made her home just outside the nation’s capital in Fairfax County, Virginia.  There she also served her community through her involvement with her church, Springfield United Methodist Church.  In 2021, she moved to North Carolina to be near “The Girls”:  her daughter, Anita Glass Carter; granddaughters, Janna Wesley May and Kaela Wesley Hawkins; and great-granddaughter, Mia Kay Hawkins – a move that brought her much joy in her final years.

Pat was known for her strong faith, her devotion to her family, and her generous heart.  She had a deep appreciation for beauty in all its forms – from music and architecture to nature, travel, and time spent with loved ones over good food and a good glass of wine.  She was smart, strong-willed, and hardworking while remaining kindhearted and warm-spirited; a true role model for her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, many other family members and friends, and eldest daughter Phyllis Ann Pruitt.  She was also preceded by her beloved husband, Robert “Bob” Henninger, whom she referred to as her sweetheart even in her last days.  Though we miss them both dearly, we take comfort in knowing they are reunited once again – together for eternity as they always wished.

In addition to “The Girls” in North Carolina, Pat is survived by her loving grandchildren, Stefanie Morrison Gaines and James Morrison; great-grandchildren, Jayme Gaines Cole and Matthew Gaines of Texas; and many nieces, nephews, and family members.

Pat loved everyone “a bushel and a peck”, and she made sure we all knew it.  She often reminded us to give our loved ones a big hug from her – and to make sure they gave one back in return.  Her love and optimism radiated in everything she did.  Whether she was sharing stories from her travels, striking up conversations with strangers, playing with babies, or offering a kind word – she made everyone she met feel seen and valued.  She was love, through and through.

A memorial service will be held 12:00 pm, Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at O’Quinn-Peebles-Phillips Funeral Home, 1310 S. Main Street, Lillington, NC followed by interment alongside her husband at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery in Spring Lake, NC.

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